How to Use Fenugreek Seeds to Treat Diabetes

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Fenugreek seeds
(Trigonella foenum graecum) are extensively used in the Indian cuisine. It does
not only impart distinctive flavor, but it also has therapeutic properties. The
seeds are known for their characteristic smell, but the use is limited by its bitter taste.

How to Use Fenugreek Seeds to Treat Diabetes

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Traditionally, fenugreek seeds are used for the treatment of diabetes, cough, and flatulence, to increase breast milk production, and for anti-inflammatory and aphrodisiac effects. Fenugreek seeds are used in both Ayurvedic and traditional Chinese medicine. Fenugreek seeds can be used both whole and in powdered form as a spice.

Fenugreek for Diabetes

Fenugreek seeds have antidiabetic properties that
help in the prevention and treatment of diabetes in several ways. Diabetes is a metabolic condition in which the blood glucose levels are higher than normal.The two types of diabetes are type 1 and type 2 diabetes. In type 1 diabetes there is insufficient insulin to unlock the cells. In type 2 diabetes, the body does not use insulin properly.

‘Fenugreek seeds contain fiber and other active compounds that are useful to lower blood sugar level and also help improve the way the body uses sugar.’

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Fenugreek seeds are high in soluble fiber
that modulates postprandial blood glucose levels by delaying the absorption of sugar in the intestines. Fenugreek seeds lower blood sugar levels by slowing down digestion and absorption of carbohydrates. Numerous studies have been conducted to investigate the antidiabetic benefits of fenugreek seeds. Findings of several clinical trials showed that fenugreek seeds can improve metabolic symptoms associated with type 1 and type 2 diabetes by
lowering blood glucose levels and improving glucose tolerance.

According to a
study conducted by Indian researchers, adding 100 grams of fenugreek powder to
the daily diet of patients with type 1 diabetes reduced their fasting blood
glucose levels and improved glucose tolerance. Findings of another clinical
trial suggest that incorporating 15 grams of fenugreek powder to the diet taken
by people with type 2 diabetes reduced the rise in post-meal blood glucose
level.

As per a study
published in the International Journal of Information Research and
Review, the levels of HbA1c reduced in patients with type 2 diabetes
who were taking fenugreek alone without medications for diabetes. The study
recommends that fenugreek is safe and may be considered in patients with HBA1c
<8% as a potential means to lower the high levels of HbA1c.

The antidiabetic
properties of fenugreek seeds are attributed to the active substances it
contains such as saponins, diosgenin, 4-hydroxyisoleucin (4-OH-Ile)
galactomannan, and trigonelline. These substances demonstrate antidiabetic
properties of fenugreek seeds. Fenugreek seeds contain 50% saponins, which
reduce the rate of glucose absorption in the digestive tract.
4-hydroxyisoleucin stimulates insulin secretion from the pancreas and also
decreases insulin resistance, galactomannan helps in glucose resorption and
trigonelline improves B-cells regeneration. Clinical trials indicate that these
active substances have a potential to become a source of new anti-diabetic
medication.

Studies indicate
that fenugreek seeds are beneficial to treat type-1 and type-2 diabetes. It is
more commonly prescribed by practitioners of alternative medicine. According to
a study published in the Journal of Diabetes and Metabolic Disorders, five grams of fenugreek seeds
powder was given to type 2 diabetics twice a day before meals for three months,
the results showed a significant decline in fasting plasma glucose (FPG),
postprandial plasma glucose (PPPG) and low-density lipoprotein cholesterol
(LDLc). Fenugreek seeds as a dietary supplement can be used for patients with
impaired glucose tolerance and could benefit from a low-risk, inexpensive,
food-based intervention.

Ways to Include Fenugreek Seeds in Your Diet

Fenugreek seeds
can be dry roasted on medium heat for a couple of minutes. One or two
tablespoons of the roasted fenugreek seeds can be added to recipes. Two tablespoons
of fenugreek seeds boiled in a cup of water for about ten minutes can be taken
as a tea twice a day. For people who do not like the taste of fenugreek seeds,
capsules can be a better alternative. The recommended dosage for fenugreek
seeds to lower blood glucose level is between 2.5-15 grams daily. Some studies
suggest that 2.5 grams of fenugreek seeds powder twice a day are beneficial.

Caution

Fenugreek seeds
can be taken to lower blood sugar levels by taking it as a supplement or adding
fenugreek seeds to recipes or drinking it as a tea. Fenugreek does help lower
blood sugar levels but it can also interact with medications prescribed for
diabetes as well as some blood thinners. So, ensure that you consult
your doctor before including any herbal medicines to your regimen, especially
if you are already taking medications for diabetes.

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